track trimming ?

[maxdlx]

Ok so i am going to trim a 2.125 series IV track down to run in my sled. Question is, can I trim the center lugs to 1.75 and the outer lugs to 1.5 wothout throwing the track out of balance. Should I just trim them all to 1.5 and be safe? Thanks

 

[ejcamaro]

I wouldn't think there would be a problem. Having the extra mass on the center of the track wouldn't be any different than running studs just on the middle.

 

[maxdlx]

Thats what I was thinking too, thanks for the mental boost LOL Thought maybe someone else had cut a track and would respond too.

 

[blueironranger]

I cut my maverick down to 1.5" with no issues using the sawzall and pipe method. You may want to go the other way though, I notice my New freeride 144 is 1.5" on the outside and 1.25/1.325 down the middle. I think taller lugs down the middle may cause funny slider wear if you don't have many idler wheels on the inside of the rails.

 

[maxdlx]

I figured taller down the center would be like studdung only the center, no push in the corners. Whats the pipe method, and how did the sawzall work. I may just go 1.75 straight through and change it later. Maxdlx

 

[Gone Blue]

I think this is the sawzall and pipe method he is referering to.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SPa3cblkaTU

G.B.

 

[maxdlx]

Thanks Blue

 

[arteeex]

I found this while the track trimming video was playing. It’s way more interesting and relevant. Could be longer though.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u8EzZd1L ... re=related

 

[Gone Blue]

No problem. Keep us posted on what method you use and how it works. I have been researching tracking trimming alittle bit for my possible next project. Thanks, G.B.

 

[maxdlx]

Well UPS showed up with the track and being impatient I couldn't wait for help to trimm it the sawzal way. What I did was used a small framing square that was about 1/8 inch over 1.5 inches as a guide, got me a real sharp new utility knife w/ new blade and had at it. Being I was just cutting the tips off it wasn't to bad. Took about 1 hour to do a 144 series IV 2 inch track. Wear gloves or be slightly more careful thanI was(3 band aids required). Lugs ended up all at 1.625, not perfect but awful close. Once you get started you realize just how to keep the track rolled up to keep the lugs immovable. Some places you had to cut the right side first and work across the track to keep the knife level, but different style tracks may work different. I think being cold and firm from just coming inside helped a bunch too. I would have taken pics but I was to impatient to get it done. Now get up at 2 am and get to work so I can get home and install it, then give it a rip. Maxdlx

 

[maxdlx]

It is kind of sad to cut such a nice looing track down, but saved me right at 300 bucks.

cutting this track to 1.625 leaves all of the back bar there for support, should make a good boondock/trail track

 

[Gone Blue]

Wow Max, I would say you did pretty good if you were able to cut down a 144" track in hour by yourself. You just proved again that there is always more than one way to do something. That's cool. Have fun with your new track. Thanks, G.B.